Rumour Mongering: Barcelona Set Sights on Mesut Ozil

Barcelona want to meet with Liverpool at the end of this month to discuss a Coutinho signing, at which time they can move on to other targets, like Ozil, if it's clear there's going to be absolutely no compromise from Liverpool.

But speaking to Kicker, Schalke chief Clemens Tonnies said that the club will explore the opportunity to bring back Ozil, who was back to his best in the win at Tottenham, as his return "would be a nice story". We would definitely consider [a return].

Whilst there is speculation in the media that Ozil would cost 10-15 million euros in January, Barcelona have reportedly contacted Arsenal and been told the fee is 20 million euros.

With the Germany worldwide adamant to run down his contract, he looks set to move away from the Emirates as a free agent, unless he is sold in January. "But it will certainly not happen next season".

The German midfielder is in the past year of his contract with the Gunners, and Barcelona believe that he could be a cost-effective solution for a long-term replacement for Andres Iniesta.

Arsene Wenger has said that Ozil wants to stay at Arsenal, despite the fact he has been unable to agree a new deal, per BBC Sport. And there could be another suitor vying for the player's signature in the future, although they are not looking to join the chasing pack next summer.

MESUT OZIL has been lined up for an emotional return to his hometown club Schalke. But, with Max Meyer and Leon Goretzka now in the final year of their respective contracts, Die Konigsblauen could soon be in the market for a playmaker.